Fire fighting systems and methods

ABSTRACT

A control system for a fire fighting device is provided. The control system may include a controller configured to operably connect over a network to a first valve controller controlling a status of a first valve in response to an input from the controller, a second valve controlling a status of a second valve in response to an input from the controller, and a governor operably controlling a power source in response to an input from the controller. The control system may further comprise a touchscreen display operably connected to the controller, the display configured to display the status of the first and second valves and configured to receive an input from a user, wherein controller generates a manipulatable icon displayed on the touchscreen display, a manipulation of the icon generating the input from the controller to the first valve controller.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 61/524,313 filed Aug. 16, 2011, U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 61/624,996 filed Apr. 16, 2012, and U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 61/625,522 filed Apr. 17, 2012, the disclosures of which arehereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

The present invention generally relates to a fire fighting fluiddelivery system and, more particularly, to a control system forcontrolling the flow of fire fighting fluid from a fluid delivery deviceof a fire fighting fluid delivery system, such as a nozzle, monitor,fire truck outlet or the like.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a control system for a pump module for a fluiddelivery device including a frame; a plurality of ground engagingmembers supporting the frame; a pump supported by the ground engagingmembers; a plurality of fluid valves supported by the ground engagingmembers and in fluid communication with the pump, is provided. In someembodiments, the system comprises a controller configured to operablyconnect over a network to a first valve controller controlling a statusof a first valve in response to an input from the controller, and atouchscreen display operably connected to the controller, the displayconfigured to display the status of the first valve and configured toreceive an input from a user, wherein the controller generates amanipulatable icon displayed on the touchscreen display, a manipulationof the icon generating the input from the controller to the first valvecontroller.

In another embodiment, a method of determining whether to execute acommand in a control system for a pump module for a fluid deliverysystem operating a plurality of modules, the fluid delivery systemincluding a frame; a plurality of ground engaging members supporting theframe; a pump supported by the ground engaging members; a plurality offluid valves supported by the ground engaging members and in fluidcommunication with the pump is provided. In some embodiments, the methodcomprises providing a boundary condition; providing a priority rankingfor each module; receiving a command to execute; determining ifexecuting the command will violate the boundary condition; executing thecommand when it was determined that executing the command will notviolate the boundary condition; and upon determining that executing thecommand will violate the boundary condition, determining if the commandis directed to a higher priority module than a priority of an operatingmodule; determining not to execute the command when the command isdirected to a lower priority module than the operating module; andreducing the output of the operating module prior to executing thecommand when the command is directed to a higher priority module thanthe operating module.

In still another embodiment, a method of maintaining a first flow ratethrough a first valve in a fluid delivery system, the fluid deliverysystem including a frame, a plurality of ground engaging memberssupporting the frame, a pump supported by the ground engaging members, aplurality of fluid valves supported by the ground engaging members andin fluid communication with the pump, and a controller controlling thepressure generated by the pump and the position of the plurality ofvalves is provided. In some embodiments, the method comprises providingthe first flow rate of a fluid pressurized by the pump through the firstvalve; receiving at the controller a request for a second flow rate ofthe fluid through a second valve; determining with the controller apredicted effect on the first flow rate based on request; adjusting atleast one of the position of the first valve and the pressure generatedby the pump to maintain the first flow rate based on the predictedeffect; and adjusting the position of the second valve to provide thesecond flow rate of the fluid through the second valve.

The disclosures of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/636,138 areexpressly incorporated by reference herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of thisdisclosure, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparentand the invention itself will be better understood by reference to thefollowing description of embodiments of the invention taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary fire fighting fluid delivery system;

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary control system of the fire fightingfluid delivery system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary valve input device;

FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate exemplary positions of the valve input device ofFIG. 3 and a visual indicator of the current valve configuration;

FIG. 5 illustrates another exemplary control system of the fire fightingfluid delivery system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 illustrates still another exemplary control system of the firefighting fluid delivery system of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 7 illustrates yet another exemplary control system of the firefighting fluid delivery system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 illustrates another exemplary fire fighting fluid deliverysystem;

FIG. 9A illustrates a side view of an exemplary pump module to beattached to a vehicle;

FIG. 9B illustrates a front view of the pump module of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary a control system according to thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 11 illustrates a user display for an exemplary control system forthe firefighting fluid delivery system of FIG. 8;

FIGS. 12 and 12A illustrate one portion of the user display of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary valve controlled by the portion of theuser display of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 illustrates the user display of FIG. 11 at a different valveposition set point;

FIG. 15 illustrates one portion of the user displays of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary valve controlled by the portion of theuser displays of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary control sequence for a control systemfor the firefighting fluid delivery system of FIG. 8;

FIG. 18 illustrates another exemplary user display for a control systemfor the firefighting fluid delivery system of FIG. 8;

FIG. 19 illustrates one portion of the user displays of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 illustrates another portion of the user displays of FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 illustrates another exemplary control system including a datalogger according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 22 illustrates an exemplary control system including a simulatoraccording to the present disclosure; and

FIGS. 23A and 23B illustrate an exemplary processing sequences for acontroller in a simulation mode according to the present disclosure.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the several views. The exemplifications set out hereinillustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and suchexemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of theinvention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be exhaustive or tolimit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the followingdetailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and describedso that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings.

While the present disclosure primarily involves mobile fire apparatus,it should be understood, that the invention may have application toother devices including stationary fire apparatus and other fluiddelivery systems.

Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary fire fighting fluid system 10 isshown. As will be more fully described below, system 10 providesenhanced control over of the delivery of one or more fire fightingfluids and allows for one or more parameters of the fire fighting fluidto be monitored, such as pressure, flow rate, temperature, or othersuitable fluid parameters, as well as parameters of the systemcomponents, such as a fire truck's engine speed (RPM), temperature, oilpressure, or other suitable system component parameters, to therebyprovide enhanced management of the fire fighting fluid and its deliverythrough a fire fighting delivery device, such as a nozzle, a nozzleinlet, a monitor, a truck outlet connection, a pipe, or a valve, orother suitable fire fighting delivery devices. In one embodiment, one ormore parameters of a fire fighting fluid are measured indirectly bymonitoring a condition of a system component. Exemplary fire fightingfluids include water, foam, and other suitable types of fluid.

In the illustrated embodiment, system 10 is incorporated in a fire truck12, which includes a fire truck outlet 14, which is in fluidcommunication with the truck fire fighting fluid storage tank 15 or anexternal water supply such as a fire hydrant (not shown) through thetruck pump 17. A fire hose 16 is shown connected to outlet 14. In oneembodiment, outlet 14 includes a valve coupled thereto, such as valve102 (see FIG. 2). Fire hose 16 includes a nozzle 18 provided at the endof hose 16. An operator may adjust nozzle 18 to alter the delivery of afire fighting fluid. In addition, truck 12 includes a monitor 19, whichis in fluid communication with the truck tank 15, also through pump 17.Further, truck 12 includes a control panel 20, which may include variousgauges and controls for controlling the operation of the truck pump 17,which pumps the fire fighting fluid, namely water, from the truck'sstorage tank or tanks 15 and for controlling the operation of othercomponents of system 10. Truck 12 may be any type of fire truck,including an aerial truck with the monitor mounted to the ladder orother extendable structure.

Truck 12 further includes an engine 22. Engine 22 drives the operationof pump 17. The speed of engine 22 may be controlled through a governor24. As demand for fire fighting fluid increases, the governor may becontrolled to increase the speed of engine 22 and thereby increase theoutput of pump 17.

Referring to FIG. 2, an exemplary control system 100 of the firefighting fluid delivery system 10 of FIG. 1 is shown. Control system 100includes a valve 102 which is coupled on one end to fire truck outlet 14and on the other end to fire hose 16. Valve 102 may be closed to preventthe communication of fire fighting fluid from fire truck outlet 14 tofire hose 16 and opened to permit the flow of fire fighting fluid fromfire truck outlet 14 to fire hose 16. Valve 102 is an electronicallycontrolled valve which is moveable from a closed state to an open stateby a motor 104 which moves a valve element, such as a ball, within valve102. An exemplary electronically controlled valve is the 2900E Seriesvalve available from Elkhart Brass located at 1302. West BeardsleyAvenue in Elkhart, Ind. An encoder 106 monitors a position of the valveelement of valve 102.

Control system 100 further includes a valve controller 110. Valvecontroller 110 controls the operation of valve 102. In one embodiment,controller 110 is a hardware controller. In one embodiment, controller110 includes one or more processors which execute one or more processingsequences stored in memory 112.

In one embodiment, valve controller 110 is operatively coupled to motor104 of valve 102 and encoder 106 of valve 102. Valve controller 110 isfurther operatively coupled to a valve input device 120. In oneembodiment, valve input device 120 is provided as part of control panel20 and is actuated by an operator to specify a desired configuration ofvalve 102. Valve input device 120 may be positioned in other locationsthan control panel 20.

An exemplary valve input device 120 is a dial or knob 122 (see FIG. 3).Referring to FIG. 3, an operator may grasp a central portion 124 of knob122 and rotate knob 122 in either direction 126 or direction 128. Avalve input sensor 130 monitors a rotational position of knob 122 andprovides an indication of that position to valve controller 110. Anexemplary valve input sensors include inductive sensors, hall effectsensors, optical sensors, and other suitable sensors. A furtherexemplary knob is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/793,109, filed Jun. 3, 2010, titled SURFACE MOUNT ROTARY CONTROL, thedisclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein.

In the illustrated embodiment, knob 122 is rotatable from the positionshown in FIG. 3 in direction 126 for about 180 degrees. Knob 122includes indicia 132 which provides a visual cue of the current positionof knob 122. This indicia 132 serves to visually communicate to anoperator the desired configuration of valve 102. Referring to FIG. 4A,indicia 132 provides a visual cue that valve 102 is being closed or isclosed. Referring to FIG. 4B, indicia 132 provides a visual cue thatvalve 102 is being opened about 50% or is opened to about 50%.

As shown in FIG. 3, in one embodiment, valve controller 110 communicateswith the encoder 106 over a CAN bus 140. In one embodiment, valvecontroller 110 also communicates with valve input sensor 130 over CANbus 140. Alternatively, valve controller 110 communicates with at leastone of encoder 106 and valve input sensor 130 over a wireless network.Valve controller 110 is also operatively coupled to a visual indicator144. Exemplary visual indicators include LEDs and other suitable lightunits. Once valve 102 is configured to correspond with the currentposition of knob 122, valve controller 110 may illuminate visualindicator 144 to provide a visual cue to the operator that valve 102 isin the desired configuration. In one embodiment, additional visualindicators are provided or a visual effect of visual indicator 144(blinking or steady) provide the operator with a current configurationof valve, an alarm or maintenance condition of valve 102, or otherinformation related to valve 102.

In one embodiment, control system 100 allows an operator to adjust knob122 and then move on to an additional task. Valve controller 110monitors the position of knob 122 through valve input sensor 130 andadjusts the configuration of valve 102 to correspond to the position ofknob 122. Knob 122 has a first range of motion which is scaled tocorrespond to a range of motion of valve 102. In the illustratedembodiment, when knob 122 is turned all the way in direction 128, knob122 is at a first end of its range of motion which corresponds to valve102 being closed and when knob 122 is turned all the way in direction126, knob 122 is at a second end of its range of motion whichcorresponds to valve 102 being fully opened. Positions of knob 122 inbetween correspond to a partially opened state of valve 102. Thepercentage that valve is opened is the percentage of the range of travelthat knob 122 has rotated in direction 126.

The operation of control system 100 is explained with reference to FIGS.4A-4C. In FIG. 4A, knob 122 is oriented such that indicia 132 points tothe off configuration of valve 102 and valve 102 is in the off position,as indicated by valve controller 110 having illuminated visual indicator144. An operator rotates knob 122 in direction 126 to set a desiredposition of valve 102 at about 50%. Valve controller 110 receives anindication of this from valve input sensor 130 and in turn actuatesvalve 102 with motor 104. Encoder 106 provides an indication to valvecontroller 110 of the current configuration of valve 102. Since valve102 is not in the desired configuration, valve controller 110 does notilluminate visual indicator 144. Once valve 102 reaches the desiredconfiguration, sometimes taking several seconds, as indicated by encoder106, valve controller 110 illuminates visual indicator 144 (see FIG.4C).

Referring to FIG. 5, another exemplary control system 200 for the firefighting fluid system 10 is shown. Control system 200 includes aplumbing controller 202 which receives input from multiple components offire fighting fluid system 10 and controls the operation of multiplecomponents of fire fighting fluid system 10. In one embodiment, plumbingcontroller 202 communicates with the other components of fire fightingfluid system 10 over a CAN bus 140. In one embodiment, plumbingcontroller 202 communicates with at least one of the other components offire fighting fluid system 10 over a wireless communication system, suchas by RF transmission

Plumbing controller 202 has access to one or more memories 204. Memory204 includes data received from one or more of the other components offire fighting fluid system 10 and processing sequences for controllingthe operation of the other components of fire fighting fluid system 10.In one embodiment, plumbing controller 202 replaces valve controller110. In one embodiment, plumbing controller 202 communicates with valvecontroller 110 and provides instructions to valve controller 110.

Plumbing controller 202 is a central controller for fire fighting fluidsystem 10 and communicates with the controllers of or directly controlsvarious components 201 of fire fighting fluid system 10. Exemplarycomponents 201 of fire fighting fluid system 10 include truck pump 17,governor 24, valve 102, monitor 19, tank level gauges 210 associatedwith truck fire fighting fluid storage tank 15, foam systems 212, scenelighting systems 214, generator 216, and other exemplary components offire fighting fluid system 10. Plumbing controller 202 receives inputfor the respective sensors of one or more of the components 201 andprovides instructions to control the operation of one or more ofcomponents 201.

In one embodiment, plumbing controller 202 is a CAN enabled controllerthat receives feedback information and send commands to multiplecomponents 201. This allows for automation of more controls so that theoperator may give inputs for desired operations and multiple components201 work in unison to achieve the desired operation. For example, a pumpoperator could indicate to the plumbing controller 202 through inputdevices 206 that they want three hose lines to be activated with each toa desired flow rate. In one embodiment, a respective valve input device120 for each of the three lines is actuated by the operator. The engineRPM, tank valve associated with tank 15, and discharge valves 102 forthese lines would then be actuated by plumbing controller 202 to achievethis desired operation of three hose lines to be activated with each toa desired flow rate. If a fourth hose line is needed, the pump operatorprovides a request to plumbing controller 202 through input devices 206this fourth line to be activated to the desired flow rate and neededcomponents 201 would be actuated by plumbing controller 202 to achievethis desired operation. In one embodiment, plumbing controller 202adjusts one or more of engine 22, governor 24, a valve 102 associatedwith one of the current lines or additional fourth line, and valve 250(see FIG. 6) associated with one of the current lines or additional, toachieve the desired operation. In one embodiment, plumbing controller202 adjusts needed components 201 based on the discharge pressure ofeach line. Discharge pressure may be exemplarily measured using pressuresensors 254 at the nozzle 18 of the current and additional lines or at adischarge 32 of monitor 19. In another embodiment, plumbing controller202 adjusts the needed component based on predicted conditions fromactivating the additional line. In other embodiments, more or fewer thanthree hose lines are activate, and more than one hose line is desired tobe added.

Plumbing controller 202 also allows for central diagnostics of all thecomponents from a central location allowing for improved notification tothe operator when an error has occurred and improved troubleshooting ofwhat has failed. Exemplary output devices include gauges, displays,lights, and other devices for communicating information to the operator.In one embodiment, the output device 208 is a display screen and thediagnostics information is provided on the display screen. In oneembodiment, one or more touch screens are provided which function asboth an input device 206 and an output device 208. In one embodiment,plumbing controller 202 may also utilize other exemplary input anddisplay technology. For example a single knob may be used to controlvarious devices by simply selecting on the touch screen which device isdesired to be controlled. Also, a single display may be used to conveyinformation about multiple devices.

Referring to FIG. 6, in one embodiment, plumbing controller 202 monitorsa shutoff valve 250 of a nozzle 18 coupled to an end of a fire hose 16.In one embodiment, a position sensor 252 is provided that monitors aposition of a shutoff lever of shutoff valve 250 thereby providing anindication of whether the shutoff valve is closed or opened and to whatdegree it is opened. A pressure sensor 254 may be provided as well tomonitor a pressure of the fluid in nozzle 18. In one example, a pressureof the fluid prior to shutoff valve 250 is monitored. In anotherexample, a pressure of the fluid after shutoff valve 250 is monitored.In another example, multiple pressure sensors are provided. A flowsensor 256 may be provided as well to monitor a flow rate of the fluidin nozzle 18. In one example, a flow rate of the fluid prior to shutoffvalve 250 is monitored. In another example, a flow rate of the fluidafter shutoff valve 250 is monitored. In another example, multiple flowrate sensors are provided.

Nozzle 18 further includes a wireless transmitter 260 for sending sensordata to plumbing controller 202. In the illustrated embodiment, thewireless transmitter 260 is an RF transmitter.

As an operator of nozzle 18 manipulates shutoff valve 250, the datacollected by the sensors of shutoff valve 250 are transmitted bytransmitter 260 to controller 202. Controller 202 automatically adjuststhe pressure of fire fighting fluid in hose 16 by either increasing theoutput of pump 17 or decreasing the output of pump 17. In oneembodiment, a nozzle 18 may be set to a desired flow rate, thecontroller 202 may maintain the desired flow rate as variables changesuch as additional discharges (valves 102) being opened or closed. Inaddition, the nozzle operator could be given more control where openingor closing the nozzle shut-off valve is directly linked to changing flowrate where the controller can modulate engine RPM and valve positions.This control system would also offer the ability for the nozzle todisplay flow rate to the nozzle operator, or broadcast the informationwhich could be displayed by another device such as a SCBA mask withinternal display. This control could potentially eliminate the need fora shut-off valve in the nozzle. An example is shown in FIG. 7. Referringto FIG. 7, nozzle 18 no longer has a shutoff valve, but still has ashutoff valve lever 253 whose position is monitored by position sensor252. The shut-off handle or lever simply becomes a input that controlsthe valve located in/on the fire truck.

Referring to FIG. 8, an exemplary firefighting fluid delivery system 310is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, system 310 isincorporated as part of fire truck 312. Fire truck 312 includes a powersource operably connected to at least one wheel of the fire truck topropel the fire truck. An exemplary power source is engine 334. Firetruck 312 further includes a cab area containing user controls.Exemplary user controls include steering, acceleration, braking,communication, navigation, warning and alert systems including lightsand sirens, and other suitable controls.

Fire truck 312 includes a fluid supply and pump 316. Fluid supply mayinclude one or more storage tanks 318 for water, foam, or other suitablefire suppressing fluid. Fluid supply may also include a fluid inlet 320for supplying additional fluid to the system from an external source(not shown). Exemplary external sources include fire hydrants, otherfirefighting vehicles including tanker trucks, rivers, lakes, and othersuitable sources.

In one embodiment, fire truck 312 includes additional systems. Exemplaryadditional systems include foam systems 317, scene lighting 319, andgenerator 321.

Fire truck 312 further includes one or more fluid outlets. Asillustrated, first fluid outlet 322 is attached to a hose 324 having anozzle 326 at the distal end. Fire truck 312 also includes monitor 328attached to second fluid outlet 323. Fire truck may include additionalfluid outlets. Each fluid outlet is in fluid communication with thefluid supply through pump 316.

Fire truck 312 includes a control system 330 (see FIG. 10). Controlsystem 330 is located at least partially in a housing 331. As will bemore fully described below, control system 330 provides enhanced controlover of the delivery of one or more fire fighting fluids and allows forone or more parameters of the fire fighting fluid to be monitored tothereby provide enhanced management of the fire fighting fluid and itsdelivery through a fire fighting delivery device. Exemplary fluidparameters include pressure, flow rate, temperature, and other suitableparameters. Exemplary system component parameters include fire truck'sengine speed (RPM), temperature, oil pressure, and other suitableparameters. Exemplary firefighting delivery devices include nozzles,nozzle inlets, monitors, outlet connections, pipes, valves, and othersuitable devices.

Control system 330 includes a user interface display 332. Asillustrated, display 332 may be mounted on the side of fire truck 312.In other embodiments, display 332 may be mounted behind a cab or firetruck 312 or internal to the cab of the fire truck 312. Display 332 mayinclude inputs and outputs for various gauges and controls forcontrolling the operation of pump 316, which pumps the fire fightingfluid from tank 318 and for controlling the operation of othercomponents of system 310. In one embodiment of control system 300,display 332 includes additional input and output devices in addition tothose listed. Exemplary input devices includes knobs, switches, lever,buttons, keyboards, and other suitable devices providing an input.Exemplary output devices include displays, sirens, lights, gauges, andother suitable devices providing an indication to an operator. Firetruck 312 may be any type of fire truck, including an aerial truck withthe monitor mounted to the ladder or other extendable structure.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate another exemplary firefighting fluid deliverysystem 314. System 314 is configured to be attached to a fire truck orother vehicle. Although illustrated as a top-mount pump module, system314 may be side-mount pump module or configured to be located elsewhereon fire truck 312. Control system 330 is at least partially located inhousing 331. System 314 includes pump 316, which pressurizes waterreceived from fluid inlet 320. Fluid inlet 320 receives water from awater tank, such as tank 318, or an external water source. System 314further includes at least first fluid outlet 322, and as illustratedincludes second fluid outlet 323. Fluid outlets 322, 323 may be attachedto piping or manifolds in the attached vehicle. Fluid delivery devices,such as hoses 324 or monitors 328 may be fluidly connected to fluidoutlets 322, 323 through the vehicle piping. Valves 338 and 339 may bepositioned internal to housing 331, or may be remotely located in otherportion of fire truck, attached to nozzles 326, or the like.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary schematic of the control system 330 ofthe present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, control systemincludes controller 350. Controller 350 may be a single controller ormultiple controllers. Controller 350 may implement programmingimplemented as electrical circuits, software being executed by aprocessor 352, a processing unit, a combination thereof, or any othersuitable configuration of software and/or software enabled hardware. Inone embodiment controller 350 comprises a computer chip with embeddedsoftware code. Controller 350 may include memory 354. Memory is anon-transitory computer readable medium and may be a single storagedevice or may include multiple storage devices, located either locallywith controller 350 or accessible across a network. Computer-readablemedia may be any available media that may be accessed by controller 350and includes both volatile and non-volatile media. Further, computerreadable-media may be one or both of removable and non-removable media.By way of example, computer-readable media may include, but is notlimited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology,CD-ROM, Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage,magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or othermagnetic storage devices, or any other medium which may be used to storethe desired information and which may be accessed by controller 350. Inone embodiment, controller 350 communicates data, status information, ora combination thereof to a remote device for analysis. In anotherembodiment, memory may further include operating system software, suchas the LINUX operating system or the WINDOWS operating system availablefrom Microsoft Corporation of Redmond Wash. Memory further includescommunications software if computer system has access to a networkthrough a network connection, such as a local area network, a publicswitched network, a CAN network, and any type of wired or wirelessnetwork. Any exemplary public switched network is the Internet.Exemplary communications software includes e-mail software, internetbrowser software. Other suitable software which permit controller 350 tocommunicate with other devices across a network may be used. In oneembodiment, controller 350 executes one or more processing sequencesstored on an external memory 355 (See FIG. 21) accessible by controller350.

Controller 350 is operably connected with display 332. An exemplarydisplay 332 is a touch screen monitor having display output 356 fordisplaying output to a user and a touch screen input 358 for receivingcommands from a user. An exemplary touch screen monitor is the HIS-UM2222 inch panel mount monitor and industrial touch screen available fromHope Industrial Systems, Inc., Atlanta Ga. Other suitable display sizesand screens may also be used.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10, controller 350 isoperably connected with external systems, such as engine 334, valvecontrollers 346, 346′, monitor controller 362, and other systems over aCAN bus network. The CAN bus allows for two-way communication betweenthe controller 350 and the remote systems. In one embodiment, controller350 sends commands to the remote systems and receives status andfeedback data back from the remote systems over the CAN bus network.

Controller 350 may be housed at least partially in housing 331. In oneembodiment, controller 350 is completely housed in housing 331. Inanother embodiment, controller 350 is housed in a second housing (notshown) physically separated from display 332 and located in a protectedposition in fire truck 312. Exemplary protected positions include in thecab of fire truck 312, in a deep interior position of fire truck 312, orother suitable positions. Positioning controller 350 in a protectedposition protects controller 350 from damage and allows controller 350to continue operating even if display 332 is damaged and no longer ableto operate. In an exemplary embodiment, a backup display (not pictured)is positioned near controller 350 in the protected position or anotherlocation on fire truck 312 and provides functionality similar to display332. In one embodiment, the backup display is activated and allows anoperator to operate controller 350 only if display 332 is damaged orotherwise not operating. In another embodiment, both the backup displayand display 332 can be used to operate controller 350 regardless ofwhether display 332 is damaged.

Engine 334 drives the operation of pump 316. The speed of engine 334 maybe controlled through a governor 336. As demand for firefighting fluidincreases, governor 336 may be controlled to increase the speed ofengine 334 and thereby increase the output of pump 316.

First fluid outlet 322 includes first fluid outlet valve 338. Anexemplary valve 338 is illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 16. Valve 338controls the flow of fluid to the fluid outlet. Valve 338 may be closedto prevent the communication of fluid from the pump 316 to hose 324,monitor 328, or other fluid outlet. Valve 338 is an electronicallycontrolled valve which is moveable from a closed state to an open stateby a motor 340 through a movement of a valve element, such as a ball342, within valve 338. An exemplary electronically controlled valve isthe 2900E Series valve available from Elkhart Brass located at 1302.West Beardsley Avenue in Elkhart, Ind. An encoder 344 monitors aposition of the valve element of valve 338.

First fluid outlet valve 338 is controlled by first fluid outlet valvecontroller 346, which is operably connected with controller 350 as partof control system 330. Additional fluid outlet valves, such as secondoutlet valve 339, are similarly controlled by fluid outlet valvecontrollers 346′ operably connected with controller 350.

In one embodiment, valve controller 346 is a hardware controller. In oneembodiment, valve controller 346 includes one or more processors whichexecute one or more processing sequences stored in memory. In oneembodiment, valve controller 346 is operatively coupled to motor 340 andencoder 344 of valve 338. A desired configuration of valve 338 specifiedby a user through touch screen input 358 is communicated to valvecontroller 346, which positions ball 342 in the proper orientation bymoving motor 340 while monitoring encoder 344.

In one exemplary embodiment, other systems may also be operablyconnected by the CAN bus network to controller 350. Monitor controller362 may control orientation of monitor 328 with respect to the firetruck 312 and the angle of a portion of monitor 328 relative the rest ofmonitor 328. Exemplary methods of controlling a monitor may be found inU.S. Patent Publication 2009/0101368, herein incorporated by reference.Additional systems and controllers connected by the CAN bus network tocontroller 350 include foam system controller 366 and foam system 317,scene lighting controller 368 and scene lighting 319, tank level gauges370 and tank 318, generator 321, and other suitable devices andcontrollers including aerial lifts and ladders.

Using a commercially available network, such as CAN bus, allowscontroller 350 to communicate with a wide variety of commerciallyavailable systems. These systems can be distributed around fire truck312 or nearby. Additional systems can be connected to the CAN busnetwork, allowing controller 350 to monitor and control many systems.Controller 350 may display outputs from these systems on display 332 asoutputs, and receive inputs from a user for each system.

In one embodiment, controller 350 is connected to a CAN enabled networkthat may receive feedback information and send commands to multiplecomponents. This allows for automation of more controls so that theoperator may give inputs for desired operations and multiple componentsmay be configured to work in unison to achieve the desired operation.For example, a pump operator indicates to controller 350 through display332 that they want three hose lines to be activated with each to adesired flow rate. In one embodiment, a respective valve display 402,404, 406, for each of the three lines are actuated by the operator. Theengine RPM, tank valve associated with tank 318, and discharge valves isthen actuated by controller 350 to achieve this desired operation ofthree hose lines to be activated with each to a desired flow rate. If afourth hose line is needed, the pump operator provides a request tocontroller 350 through display 332 for this fourth line to be activatedto the desired flow rate, and the needed components would be actuated bycontroller 350 to achieve the desired settings. In one exemplaryembodiment, governor 336 increases the RPM of engine 334 and controller350 and/or a valve controller 346 opens a valve associated with thefourth line.

In another embodiment, controller 350 includes a registry 364 of theremote systems communicating with controller 350 over the CAN network.Exemplary remote systems are shown in FIG. 10 and include governor 336,engine 334, first fluid outlet valve controller 346, first valve 338,second fluid outlet valve controller 346, second valve 339, monitorposition controller 362, monitor 328, foam system controller 366, foamsystem 317, scene lighting controller 368, scene lighting 319, tanklevel gauges 370, tank 318, and generator 321. Upon receiving a command,such as from a user through the touch screen input 358 of display 332,controller 350 determines an appropriate command to one or more of theremote systems. Using registry 364, controller 350 determines theappropriate identifier for the remote system and CAN message details andcommunicates the command to the system over the CAN network. The remotesystem acts in response to the command and transmits data back tocontroller 350. Controller 350 receives the transmitted data and maydisplay selected outputs on display output 356 of display 332. In oneexemplary embodiment, for systems having a sub-controller attached tocontroller 350 over the network, such as valve controllers 346, 346′,monitor controller 362, foam system controller 366, and scene lightingcontroller 368, controller 350 may transmit a desired state of thesub-system, and the sub-controller may cause the sub-system to respondto meet the desired state.

Controller 350 also allows for central diagnostics of all the componentsfrom a central location allowing for improved notification to theoperator when an error has occurred and improved troubleshooting of whathas failed. In one embodiment, the diagnostics information is providedon display 332.

Referring to FIG. 8, in one embodiment, nozzle 326 may include aposition sensor 252 that monitors a position of a shutoff lever ofshutoff valve 250, a pressure sensor 254 to monitor a pressure of thefluid in nozzle 326 or a flow sensor 256 to monitor a flow rate of thefluid in nozzle 326, as in FIGS. 6-7. Sensors 252, 254, 256 maycommunicate with controller 350 as described with respect to plumbingcontroller 202 above, including by wireless transmission. Controller 350may control governor 336, pump 316, and valve 338 as described withrespect to governor 24, pump 17, and valve 102 above.

As an operator of nozzle 326 manipulates nozzle valve 327 or a lever ofa valveless nozzle (not shown), the data indicating the position ofnozzle valve 327 or lever, pressure, and/or flow rate is transmitted tocontroller 350. Controller 350 automatically adjusts the pressure offire fighting fluid in hose 324 by either increasing the output of pump316 or decreasing the output of pump 316. In one embodiment, a nozzle326 may be set to a desired flow rate, the controller 350 may maintainthe desired flow rate as variables change such as additional dischargesbeing opened or closed. In addition, the nozzle operator may be givenmore control in situations where opening or closing the nozzle shut-offis directly linked to changing flow rate by way of the controllermodulating engine RPM and adjusting valve positions.

FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary display 332 according to the presentdisclosure. Display 332 includes a plurality of valve displays 402, 404,406, 408, 410, 412, 414, and 416. Each valve display corresponds to adifferent valve 338 of system 310. Illustratively, valve display 402 maycorrespond to valve 338 on first fluid outlet 322, valve display 404 maycorrelate to a valve 339 (see FIG. 8) on second fluid outlet 323attached to monitor 328, and the remaining valve displays 406, 408, 410,412, 414, and 416 correspond to valves on other fluid outlets.

Display 332 also includes engine display 418 for displaying informationsuch as truck's engine speed (RPM), temperature, oil pressure, or thelike. Data from a CAN bus output of governor 336 communicates withcontroller 350 and is displayed on display 332.

In one embodiment, display 332 also includes tank level display (notshown) for displaying information such as the level of fluid in one ormore tanks 318, intake pressure in inlet 320, and the like. Data from aCAN bus output of tank 318 communicates with controller 350 and isdisplayed on display 332.

Data from additional modules, such as generators, scene lights,monitors, aerials, and ladders, may also be displayed.

Display 332 also includes warning display 420 for displaying anyrelevant warnings to an operator. Exemplary warnings include lowpressure in the fluid inlet 320, low fluid level in tank 318, andwarnings relating to additional requests for fluid as described below.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, display 332 incorporates data from multiplevalves, the engine, and warning systems on a single screen. This allowsa user to view data from multiple sources without having to scrollbetween screens or toggle through menus.

FIG. 12 illustrates an enlarged view of one of the valve displays 402 ofFIG. 11. Valve display 402 comprises a flow portion 422 and a valveportion 424. Flow portion 422 displays information relating to the flowrate of fluid through valve 338 associated with valve display 402. Valveportion 424 displays information relating to the position of valveelement, such as ball 342, within valve 338 associated with valvedisplay 402.

Flow portion 422 includes identification 426. Identification 426identifies which fluid outlet corresponds to the valve display 402. Asillustrated in FIG. 12, valve display 402 corresponds to “Discharge #1.”Flow portion 422 further includes reference display 428. Referencedisplay 428 shows a range of possible flow rates possible throughcorresponding valve 338. As illustrated, reference display 428 displaysa range of possible flow rates from 0 to 750 gallons per minute. Asshown in FIG. 11, the range may vary between different valve displays,as different outlets may have different ranges of possible flow rates.For example, valve display 416 has a range of 0 to 200, and valvedisplay 408 has a range of 0 to 1000. The flow rate may also bedisplayed in other units, such as liters per minute. In otherembodiments, the flow rate is replaced with the pressure measured inpounds per square inch, kilopascals, bar, or other suitable units.

Referring again to valve display 402 in FIGS. 12 and 12A, referencedisplay 428 is divided into first portion 430 and second portion 432. Asillustrated, first portion 430 may be green in color, and second portion432 may be red in color. In one exemplary embodiment, first portion 430indicates operation within a safe range of discharges based on thecurrent operations of the system. Second portion 432 indicates operatingoutside of a safe range of discharge based on the current operations ofthe system.

In another exemplary embodiment, first portion 430 indicates that theassociated valve is operating within a range of predeterminedcharacteristics and second portion 432 indicates that the associatedvalve is operating outside a range of predetermined characteristics. Inthis embodiment, an operator sets the range associated with firstportion 430 based in part on known operating characteristics of thefirefighting fluid delivery system 310. In one embodiment, thesecharacteristics include a range of discharge pressures or flow ratesdetermined to operate with minimal adjustments. The characteristics maybe determined in part by the type or model of nozzle 326 and length ofhose 324 associated with first valve 338. In another embodiment, aportion of valve display 402 changes color when first valve 338 isoperating outside of the range of predetermined characteristics. In theembodiment illustrated in 12A, second portion 432 is discontinuous andbounds first portion 430 at a lower threshold 431 and an upper threshold433. In one embodiment, reference display 428 is a manipulatable icon,and the range corresponding to first portion 430 can be adjusted bytouching lower threshold 431 and/or upper threshold 433 on valve display402 and dragging the threshold to a new value.

In one embodiment, controller 350 alerts an operator when the valveparameter is operating outside the predetermined characteristics asindicated by first portion 430. Exemplary alerts include a warningmessage on display 332, changing the color of a portion of display 332,an audible alert, or other suitable alerts.

Needle indicator 434 shows where on reference display 428 the currentflow registers. Additionally, flow display 436 displays the current flownumerically.

Valve portion 424 includes set point indicator 438, reference indicia440, valve position indicator 442, and valve position visual indicator444. Set point indicator 438 indicates the current set point ofcorresponding valve 338. Reference indicia 440 provide visual cues thatvalve 338 is set to just below 40% open. Valve position indicator 442indicates that the current status of valve 338, as measured by encoders344, is 39% open. Valve position visual indicator 444 provides visualcues that valve 338 is currently about 40% open. If the valve iscurrently inactive, or another warning status occurs, valve positionindicator 442 and valve position visual indicator 444 are replaced withstatus message 446, as shown in reference to valve display 404. As anexample, if valve 338 does not reach the set point within apredetermined time, status message 446 will alert user that the valve isnot in position.

In another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12A, an acceptable range foreach corresponding valve 338 is provided in place of a set point. In theillustrated embodiment, a minimum 445 and maximum 457 set pointindicator are used to set the range on valve portion 424 of display 332.In another embodiment (not shown), the range is automatically set acertain distance above and below the setpoint indicator 438.

As illustrated in FIGS. 11, 12, 14, and 15, outer reference ring 448 andcorresponding set point indicator 438 may be color coded in a differentcolor for each of valve displays 402, 404, 406, 408, 410, 412, 414, and416.

Referring next to FIG. 13, an exemplary valve 338 is illustrated. Ball342 is shown in the position indicated in FIGS. 11 and 12, at about 39%open.

Referring next to FIGS. 14 and 15, the display 332 and valve display 402are shown once a new set point has been entered for valve 338corresponding to first fluid outlet 322. Display 332 comprises a touchscreen with the icons being manipulatable by a user to form an inputdevice to control system 330. An operator touches display 332 and dragsset point indicator 438 to a new position. Controller 350 receives asindication of this from display 332 and in turn communicates to valvecontroller 346 the new set point. Valve controller 346 actuates valve338 with motor 340. Encoder 344 provides an indication to valvecontroller 346 of the current configuration of valve 338. Valvecontroller 346 communicates the current position of valve 338 tocontroller 350, which displays it on display 332 valve position visualindicator 444. Similarly, a user may touch needle indicator 434 and dragit to a new position, and corresponding valve 338 and set pointindicator 438 will adjust to reach the new flow rate set point.

In FIGS. 14 and 15, set point indicator 438 for valve display 402 hasbeen moved to about 89%. Needle indicator 434 and flow display 436 haveincreased to display that the flow rate through corresponding valve 338at 89% has increased to 667.5.

Referring next to FIG. 16, the exemplary valve 338 of FIG. 13 isillustrated with ball 342 is shown in the position indicated in FIGS. 14and 15, at about 89% open.

Referring next to FIG. 18, another exemplary display 450 according tothe present disclosure is illustrated. Display 332 includes a pluralityof valve displays 452, 454, 456, 458, 460, 462, 464, and 466. Each valvedisplay corresponds to a different valve 338 of system 310.Illustratively, valve display 452 corresponds to valve 338 on firstfluid outlet 322, valve display 454 may correlate to a valve 339 (seeFIG. 8) on second fluid outlet 323 attached to monitor 328. Valvedisplays 456, 458, and 462 correspond to additional valves on additionalpump discharge lines. Valve displays 460, 464, and 466 correspond toother valves on fire truck. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18,valve display 460 corresponds to a valve on a water tower, an elevatedfluid discharge (not shown in FIGS. 1 and 8). Valve display 464corresponds to a valve on a front bumper jump line (not shown in FIGS. 1and 8). Valve display 466 corresponds to a valve attached to apreconnect line, which is a line typically kept connected to the truck(not shown in FIGS. 1 and 8).

In the illustrated embodiment, display 450 also includes engine display468 for displaying information such as truck's engine speed (RPM),temperature, oil pressure, or the like. As illustrated, engine display468 displays the current engine speed. In one embodiment, data from aCAN bus output of governor 336 communicates with controller 350 and isdisplayed on display 450.

In the illustrated embodiment, display 450 also includes tank leveldisplay 469 for displaying information such as the level of fluid in oneor more tanks 318, intake pressure in inlet 320, and the like. Asillustrated, tank level display 469 includes a tank volume display 471displaying the tank level in gallons, and tank percentage display 473displaying a rectangle that has a length corresponding to the proportionof the tank volume currently filled. Data from a CAN bus output of tank318 communicates with controller 350 and is displayed on display 450.

In the illustrated embodiment, display 450 also includes master intakedisplay 491 and master discharge display 492 for displaying informationrelating to the intake and discharge pressures of pump 316.

Data from additional modules, such as generators, scene lights,monitors, aerials, and ladders, and display of relevant warnings to anoperator may also be displayed on display 450.

As illustrated in FIG. 18, display 450 incorporates data from multiplevalves, the engine, and warning systems on a single screen. This allowsa user to view data from multiple sources without having to scrollbetween screens or toggle through menus. In another embodiment, display450 incorporates data from multiple sources selected from a registry ona single screen. In an exemplary embodiment, the data displayed includesdata from a plurality of the following sources: a first valvecontroller, a second valve controller, a monitor or water cannon, anengine, a governor, a water tank, a foam tank, a generator, and scenelighting. In one embodiment, the displayed data to be displayed on asingle screen is selected by an operator, and display 450 automaticallyresizes the display outputs associated with each source to be displayedon a single screen.

FIG. 19 illustrates an enlarged view of one of the valve displays 452 ofFIG. 18. Valve display 452 comprises a flow portion 472 and a valveportion 474. Flow portion 472 displays information relating to the flowrate of fluid through valve 338 associated with valve display 452. Valveportion 474 displays information relating to the position of valveelement, such as ball 342, within valve 338 associated with valvedisplay 452.

Flow portion 472 includes identification 476. Identification 476identifies which fluid outlet corresponds to the valve display 452. Asillustrated in FIG. 19, valve display 452 corresponds to “Discharge #1.”Flow portion 472 further includes reference display 478. Referencedisplay 478 shows a range of possible pressures possible throughcorresponding valve 338. As illustrated, reference display 478 displaysa range of possible pressures from 0 to 400 pounds per square inch.Needle indicator 484 indicates where on reference display 478 thecurrent pressure registers. Additionally, flow display 486 displays thecurrent flow rate in gallons per minute.

Valve portion 474 includes set point indicator 488 and valve statusindicia 490. Set point indicator 488 indicates the current set point ofcorresponding valve 338. Valve status indicia 490 provide visual cues asto the current status of the valve. As illustrated, valve status indicia490 includes ten markings, each corresponding to about 10% open statusof the valve. As the corresponding valve 338 opens or closes, the tenmarkings comprising valve status indicia 490 change color. In oneembodiment, the markings change from red to green to indicate thecurrent status of the corresponding valve 338. When corresponding valve338 is 0% open, all ten markings of valve status indicia are red. Whencorresponding valve 339 is 100% open, all ten markings of valve statusindicia are green. When corresponding valve 339 is partially open, someof the ten markings are red and some of the markings are green. In anexemplary embodiment, each of the ten markings corresponds to 10% of thevalve open position. When the valve is about 10% open, one marking isgreen and nine markings are red. When the valve is about 50% open, fivemarkings are green and five markings are red. When the valve is about90% open, nine markings are green and one marking is red.

In one embodiment, valve status indicia 490 gives a user manipulatingset point indicator 488 a reference as to what percentage open thecorresponding valve 338 is. When set point indicator 488 is aligned withthe far left edge of valve status indicia 490, corresponding valve 338is 0% open. When set point indicator 488 is aligned with the far rightedge of valve status indicia 490, corresponding valve 338 is 100% open.When set point indicator 488 is at the mid-point of valve status indicia490, corresponding valve 338 is 50% open. Although the illustrated valvestatus indicia 490 includes ten markings, more or fewer markings mayalso be used.

In an exemplary embodiment, valve status indicia 490 are positioned inline with set point indicator 488. Any difference between the changefrom green to red markings in valve status indicia 490 and set pointindicator 488 indicates that the corresponding valve 338 is not at theset point.

In the illustrated embodiment, display 450 comprises a touch screen withthe icons being manipulatable by a user to form an input device tocontrol system 330. An operator touches display 452 and drags set pointindicator 488 to a new position. Controller 350 receives as indicationof this from display 450 and in turn communicates to valve controller346 the new set point. Valve controller 346 actuates valve 338 withmotor 340. Encoder 344 provides an indication to valve controller 346 ofthe current configuration of valve 338. Valve controller 346communicates the current position of valve 338 to controller 350, whichdisplays it on display 332 valve status indicia 490. Similarly, a usermay touch setpoint needle 485 and drag it to a new position, andcorresponding valve 338 and set point indicator 488 will adjust to reachthe new flow rate set point.

In one embodiment (not shown), valve display 452 is an iconcorresponding to a valve. In this embodiment, a operator touches thegraphical representation of the valve and drags it to a new positioncorresponding to a valve position. First fluid outlet valve controller346 and/or controller 350 adjust the position of first valve 338 toreach the valve position. In one exemplary embodiment, the graphicalrepresentation includes an illustration of a valve cross-section showinga waterway, and the operator touches and drags a portion of thegraphical representation to cover a portion of the waterway. In anotherexemplary embodiment, the graphical representation includes anillustration of a valve and a valve handle, and an operator touches anddrags the valve handle relative to the valve.

Referring again for FIG. 18, in one embodiment, display 450 includes amanipulatable icon for a monitor. Exemplary methods for controlling amonitor using a manipulatable icon are disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/174,866 entitled FIREFIGHTING DEVICE FEEDBACKCONTROL, filed Jul. 17, 2008, the disclosures of which are hereinexpressly incorporated by reference in their entirety. In oneembodiment, an operator touches the manipulatable icon for monitor 328and drags it to a new position corresponding to a position ororientation of at least a portion of the monitor 328. Controller 350and/or monitor position controller 362 receives an indication of thisfrom display 450 and in turns positions monitor 328 in a new position ornew orientation of the at least portion of the monitor 328.

In one embodiment tank fill display 473 is a manipulatable icon. In thisembodiment, an operator touches tank fill display 473 and drags thedisplay 473 to a new position. Controller 350 receives an indication ofthis from display 450 and in turn adjusts the position of valves to filltank 318 from fluid inlet 320. In another embodiment, display 450includes a manipulatable icon (not shown) for generator 321corresponding to the percentage or time remaining in a power sourcepowering one or more systems on fire truck 312. In this embodiment, anoperator touches the manipulatable icon for generator 321 and drags theicon to a new position corresponding to a higher percentage or timeremaining in the power source. Controller 350 receives an indication ofthis from display 450 and in turn controls the generator 321 and engine334 to charge the power source powering one or more systems. In oneembodiment, display 450 includes a manipulatable icon (not shown) forscene lighting 319 corresponding to the position or orientation of scenelighting 319. In this embodiment, an operator touches the manipulatableicon for scene lighting 319 and drags the icon to a new positioncorresponding to a new position or a new orientation for scene lighting319. Controller 350 and/or scene lighting controller 368 receives anindication of this from display 450 and in turns positions scenelighting 319 in a new position or new orientation.

Referring next to FIG. 20, the exemplary master intake display 491 andmaster discharge display 492 of the display 450 of FIG. 18 areillustrated. Master intake display 491 displays information relating tothe intake pressure of pump 316 and master discharge display 492displays information relating to the discharge pressure of pump 316.Displays 490 and 492 include reference display 494 showing range ofpossible pressures through pump 316. As illustrated, reference display494 for master intake display 491 displays a range of possible pressuresfrom −100 to 400 pounds per square inch, and reference display 494 formaster discharge display 492 displays a range of possible pressures from0 to 400 pounds per square inch. A needle indicator 496 for each ofdisplays 490, 492 indicates where on reference display 494 the currentintake and discharge pressures register.

As illustrated, reference display 494 is divided into first portion 480and second portion 482. As illustrated, first portion 480 may be greenin color, and second portion 482 may be red in color. Other colors mayalso be used. First portion 480 indicates operation within a safe rangeof pressures. Second portion 482 indicates operating outside of a saferange of pressures to the system. In the exemplary embodimentillustrated, master intake display 491 changes from first portion 480 tosecond portion 482 at about 350 psi, and master discharge display 492changes from first portion 480 to second portion 482 at about 300 psi.

In one embodiment, controller 350 receives an input from one or moreanalog devices coupled to controller 350 and displays the input as anicon as part of display 450.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 17, controller 350 executes aprocessing sequence 500 to determine whether a requested command fromtouch screen input 358 may be implemented prior to moving the valve. Inblock 502, a command is received by controller 350. The command may comefrom touch screen input 358 as part of display 332. In block 504,controller 350 determines predicted conditions if the command isexecuted. The predicted conditions may be based on information fromsensors including sensors measuring tank level, pressure, and flow atdifferent points in firefighting fluid delivery system 310. In oneembodiment, the predicted conditions are based on information frompressure transducers and flow meters near nozzle 326. In one embodiment,the predicted conditions are based in part on the model or type of oneor more nozzles 326 and the status of a valve associated with the one ormore nozzles 326. In one embodiment, the predicted conditions are basedin part on the model or type of monitor 328 and the inlet pressure anddischarge pressure through the monitor 328.

In block 506, controller 350 compares the predicted conditions withboundary conditions stored in memory 354. Boundary conditions mayconsist of one or more monitored values. Exemplary boundary valuesrelate to engine RPM, oil pressure, tank level, maximum flow rates, andmaximum pressures. If the predicted conditions do not exceed theboundary conditions, in block 508, the controller executes the command.

If the predicted conditions exceed the boundary conditions, in block510, controller 350 determines whether the newly received command fromblock is directed to a higher priority module than any module currentlyoperating. Priority is determined by several predetermined criteria. Inone embodiment, higher priority is given to manned modules, such aslines those attached to hose 324, over unmanned lines, such as tomonitor 328. Higher priority may also be given to currently operatingmodules over newly started modules. If the command is not directed to ahigher priority module than any currently operating, in block 512, thecontroller does not execute the command and alarms the user. Exemplaryalarms include audio alarms and displaying an alarm on display 332, suchas in warning display 420. In one embodiment, the priority of modules isdetermined by an operator. In another embodiment, a predeterminedpriority of modules is provided to controller 350.

If the command is directed to a higher priority module than at least onemodule currently operating, in block 514, controller 350 determines thepredicted conditions based on reducing the output to the lowest prioritymodule and executing the command received in block 502. The modules maybe categorized based on different types of outputs, and the lowestpriority module to have the output reduced may be selected from acategory of modules affecting the boundary condition. For example, ifthe boundary condition at issue involves tank level, the selection ofthe lowest priority module in processing sequence 500 may be made onlyamong those modules categorized as affecting tank level. Further, theamount of reduction may be to deactivate the lowest priority modulealtogether, or reduce it by a predetermined amount. If the partialreduction does not work, controller 350 may iteratively reduce themodule again until either the module is deactivated or the boundarycondition is no longer violated.

In block 516, controller 350 compares the predicted conditions of block514 with the boundary conditions stored in memory 354. If the predictedconditions do not exceed the boundary conditions, in block 518, thecontroller 350 reduces the output to the lowest priority module andexecutes the command.

If the predicted conditions exceed the boundary conditions, in block520, controller 350 determines whether the newly received command fromblock is directed to a higher priority module than any other modulecurrently operating. If the command is not directed to a higher prioritymodule than any currently operating, in block 522, the controller doesnot execute the command and alarms the user.

If the command is directed to a higher priority module than anothermodule currently operating, in block 524, similarly to block 514,controller 350 determines the predicted conditions based on reducing theoutput to the next lowest priority module and executing the commandreceived in block 502. The controller then returns to block 516 tocompare the predicted conditions from block 524 with the boundaryconditions.

Other suitable methods for determining whether to execute a command mayalso be used. In other embodiments, a new command that will exceedboundary conditions may be partially filled while similarlyproportionally decreasing output to other modules with similar priority.In still other embodiments, controller will monitor boundary conditionsas a new command is received and attempting to be implemented. If thestatus of an output reaches within a predetermined range of the boundarycondition, the system will display an alarm and the command will not befurther executed. Alternatively, the system may alarm and return to thestatus prior to the command that caused the alarm.

Referring next to FIG. 21, another exemplary control system 380 isillustrated. Control system 380 is similar to control system 330, butfurther includes datalogger 382. Datalogger 382 records the status ofexternal systems. Exemplary external systems are shown in FIG. 21, andinclude engine 334, valve controllers 346, 346′, monitor controller 362,and other systems. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10,controller 350 is operably connected with external systems, over a CANbus network. In one embodiment, controller 350 sends commands to theexternal systems and receives status and feedback data back from theexternal systems over the CAN bus network. Datalogger may include memoryto store the status and feedback data from the external systems, ordatalogger may store the status and feedback data in memory 354 orexternal memory 355. In one embodiment, datalogger 382 is part ofcontroller 350. In one embodiment, datalogger 382 is software executedby controller 350.

In one embodiment, the status and feedback data stored by datalogger 382may be retrieved by an operator and examined to determine whether properprocedures were followed and whether the actions taken by an operatorwere correct. In another embodiment, datalogger 382 determines whetherproper procedures were followed and whether actions taken were correctbased on the fact that certain systems have higher priority than othersystems. In this embodiment, datalogger 382 is provided withpredetermined rules, criteria, or boundary conditions for a given rangeof conditions. If the status and feedback data stored by datalogger 382violate these provided rules, criteria, or boundary conditions, anoperator is alerted. In an exemplary embodiment, the operator is alertedas the rule, criteria, or boundary condition is violated. In anotherexemplary embodiment, the operator is alerted only upon requesting areport from control system 380.

Referring next to FIG. 22, still another exemplary control system 390 isillustrated. Control system 390 is similar to control system 380, butthe external systems, such as engine 334, valves, valve controllers 346,346′, monitor controller 362, and other systems, are simulated withsimulator 392. Display 332 displays to an operator one or morepredetermined starting conditions provided from memory 354 or externalmemory 355 on display output 356. Display 332 includes informationrelating to valve status, pressures, flow rates, and warnings providedby simulator 392. Simulator 392 determines predicted output conditionsof a firefighting fluid delivery system based on a given set of inputconditions. The predicted conditions may be based on information gainedfrom sensors associated with a non-simulated control system 380including sensors measuring tank level, pressure, and flow at differentpoints in firefighting fluid delivery system 310. In one embodiment, atleast some of the output conditions are displayed on display output 356and at least some of the input conditions can be set or adjusted throughtouch screen input 358. Exemplary output conditions include flow rates,pressures, engine conditions, tank levels, and other suitable outputs.Exemplary input conditions include valve status set point, flow rate setpoints, pressure set points, engine condition set points, and othersuitable inputs. In one embodiment, simulator 392 is part of controller350. In one embodiment, simulator 392 is software executed by controller350.

FIG. 23A illustrates an exemplary simulation process 530 for controlsystem 390. Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23A, in one embodiment, simulator392 provides a simulation of a firefighting fluid delivery system 310 ata steady state condition, as shown in block 532. In block 534, display332 displays the starting input conditions and output conditions ondisplay output 356. In block 536, an operator can then adjust one ormore of the input conditions using touch screen input 358 and in block538 simulator 392 determines the effect on the output conditions. Inblock 540, datalogger 382 records the input and predicted outputconditions in either memory 354 or external memory 355. In block 542,controller 350 determines whether to end the simulation. The decision toend the simulation may be based on a predetermined time, a boundarycondition being exceeded, achieving a predetermined output, a testinginterval ending, or other suitable logic. In one embodiment, thesimulator provides simulated equipment failures or other alarmconditions to determine how an operator reacts to unplanned events. Ifthe simulation is not ended, process 530 returns to block 534 anddisplays the current input and output conditions on display 332. In oneembodiment, the record of input conditions and simulated outputconditions can be reviewed to determine the predicted effects ofchanging different inputs. In another embodiment, control system 390 maybe used as a training tool and the record of input conditions andsimulated output conditions may be reviewed to determine whether properprocedures were followed and the operator's ability to achieve desiredoutputs.

FIG. 23B illustrates another exemplary simulation process 550 forcontrol system 390. Referring to FIGS. 22 and 23B, in another embodimentsimulator 392 provides a simulation of a firefighting fluid deliverysystem 310 to an operator, and then simulates an event. In block 552,starting conditions are entered into simulator 392 or retrieved frommemory operable connected to simulator 392. In block 554, display 332displays the starting input conditions and output conditions on displayoutput 356. In block 556, simulator 392 receives conditions for anevent. Exemplary events include changes in pressures or flow rates,simulated failures in system components, and other suitable events. Inblock 558, control system 390 determines the predicted effect on outputconditions or an operator's response to the event. In block 560, theevent conditions and predicted outputs are recorded in either memory 354or external memory 355. In block 562, display 332 displays the currentinput conditions and output conditions on display output 356. In block564, an operator adjusts one or more of the input conditions using touchscreen input 358, and in block 566 simulator 392 determine the predictedeffect on the output conditions. In block 568, datalogger 382 recordsthe input and output conditions in either memory 354 or external memory355. In block 570, controller 350 determines whether to end thesimulation. The decision to end the simulation may be based on apredetermined time, a boundary condition being exceeded, achieving apredetermined output, or other suitable logic. If the simulation is notended, process 550 returns to block 562 and displays the current inputand output conditions on display 332. In one embodiment, the record ofinput conditions and simulated output conditions may be reviewed todetermine the predicted effects of the event and the operator'sresponse. In another embodiment, control system 390 may be used as atraining tool and the record of input conditions and simulated outputconditions can be reviewed to determine whether proper procedures werefollowed and the operator's ability to respond to the event.

In one embodiment, a fire fighting system is provided The fire systemcomprises a frame; a plurality of ground engaging members supporting theframe; a pump supported by the ground engaging members; a plurality offluid valves supported by the ground engaging members and in fluidcommunication with the pump; a controller operatively coupled to thepump and the plurality of valves, the controller controlling a positionof each of the plurality of valves; and a touch interface supported bythe plurality of ground engaging members, the touch interface providingat least one input for setting a desired position of a first valve andat least one output indicating a current position of the first valve.

In one embodiment, a fire fighting system for use with a fire fightingvehicle including a frame; a plurality of ground engaging memberssupporting the frame; a pump supported by the ground engaging members; aplurality of fluid valves supported by the ground engaging members andin fluid communication with the pump is provided. The system comprises:a controller including at least one input for operatively coupling thecontroller to the pump and the plurality of valves, the controller beingconfigured to control a position of each of the plurality of valves; anda touch interface, the touch interface providing at least one input forsetting a desired position of a first valve and at least one outputindicating a current position of the first valve.

In one embodiment, a control system for a pump module for a fluiddelivery device including a frame; a plurality of ground engagingmembers supporting the frame; a pump supported by the ground engagingmembers; a plurality of fluid valves supported by the ground engagingmembers and in fluid communication with the pump is provided. The systemcomprises: a controller configured to operably connect over a network toa first valve controller controlling a status of a first valve inresponse to an input from the controller, a second valve controlling astatus of a second valve in response to an input from the controller,and a governor operably controlling a power source in response to aninput from the controller; and a display operably connected to thecontroller, the display configured to display the status of the firstand second valves and configured to receive an input from a user;wherein the display includes a touchscreen monitor generating amanipulatable icon, the manipulation of the icon generating the inputfrom the controller to the first valve controller.

In one embodiment, a control system for a pump module for a fluiddelivery device including a frame; a plurality of ground engagingmembers supporting the frame; a pump supported by the ground engagingmembers; a plurality of fluid valves supported by the ground engagingmembers and in fluid communication with the pump is provided. The systemcomprises a controller configured to operably connect over a network toa first valve controller controlling a status of a first valve inresponse to an input signal from the controller; and a display includinga touchscreen monitor for displaying the status of the first valve andconfigured to receive an input from a user, the display generating amanipulatable set point icon, wherein the configuration of the iconindicating the set point of the status of the first valve, and thedisplay generating an input signal to the first valve controller inresponse to a manipulation of the set point icon. In another embodiment,the first valve controller further includes a sensor detecting a currentstatus of the first valve and the display further generates a secondicon indicating the current status of the first valve.

In one embodiment, a method of determining whether to execute a commandin a control system for a pump module for a fluid delivery systemoperating a plurality of modules, the fluid delivery system including aframe; a plurality of ground engaging members supporting the frame; apump supported by the ground engaging members; a plurality of fluidvalves supported by the ground engaging members and in fluidcommunication with the pump is provided. The method comprises the stepsof: providing a boundary condition; receiving a command to execute;determining if executing the command will violate the boundary conditionand executing the command when executing the command will not violatethe boundary condition; providing a priority ranking for each module anddetermining if the command is directed to a higher priority module thanthe priority of an operating module; determining not to execute thecommand when the command is not directed to a higher priority modulethan the operating module; and reducing the output of the operatingmodule prior to executing the command when the command is directed to ahigher priority module than the lowest priority operating module.

While this invention has been described as having an exemplary design,the present invention may be further modified within the spirit andscope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended tocover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using itsgeneral principles. Further, this application is intended to cover suchdepartures from the present disclosure as come within known or customarypractice in the art to which this invention pertains.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of determining whether to execute acommand in a control system for a pump module for a fluid deliverysystem operating a plurality of modules, the fluid delivery systemincluding a frame; a plurality of ground engaging members supporting theframe; a pump supported by the ground engaging members; a plurality offluid valves supported by the ground engaging members and in fluidcommunication with the pump, the method comprising: providing a boundarycondition; providing a priority ranking for each module of the pluralityof modules, wherein modules associated with manned systems are givenhigher priority than modules associated with unmanned systems; receivinga command to execute; determining if executing the command will violatethe boundary condition; executing the command if determined thatexecuting the command will not violate the boundary condition; and ifdetermined that executing the command will violate the boundarycondition, determining if the command is directed to a higher prioritymodule than a priority of an operating module; determining not toexecute the command when the command is directed to a lower prioritymodule than the operating module; and reducing an output of theoperating module prior to executing the command when the command isdirected to the higher priority module than the operating module.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the boundary condition is selected from oneof a discharge pressure, an intake pressure, a flow rate, an engine RPM,an engine oil pressure, and a fluid tank level.
 3. The method of claim1, further comprising the steps of: controlling a pressure generated bythe pump and a position of the plurality of valves; and maintaining afirst flow rate through a first valve of the fluid delivery system. 4.The method of claim 1, wherein the fluid delivery device is a firetruck.
 5. A method of determining whether to execute a command in acontrol system for a pump module for a fluid delivery system operating aplurality of modules, the fluid delivery system including a frame; aplurality of ground engaging members supporting the frame; a pumpsupported by the ground engaging members; a plurality of fluid valvessupported by the ground engaging members and in fluid communication withthe pump, the method comprising: providing a boundary condition;providing a priority ranking for each module; receiving a command toexecute; determining if executing the command will violate the boundarycondition; executing the command if determined that executing thecommand will not violate the boundary condition; and if determined thatexecuting the command will violate the boundary condition, determiningif the command is directed to a higher priority module than a priorityof a first operating module; determining not to execute the command whenthe command is directed to a lower priority module than the firstoperating module; reducing an output of the first operating module priorto executing the command when the command is directed to the higherpriority module than the first operating module: determining ifexecuting the command is directed to a higher priority module than apriority of a second operating module; and reducing an output of thesecond operating module prior to executing the command when the commandis directed to the higher priority module than the second operatingmodule.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein modules associated with mannedsystems are given higher priority than modules associated with unmannedsystems.
 7. The method of claim 5, wherein already operating modules aregiven higher priority than newly started modules.
 8. A method ofdetermining whether to execute a command in a control system for a pumpmodule for a fluid delivery system operating a plurality of modules, thefluid delivery system including a frame; a plurality of ground engagingmembers supporting the frame; a pump supported by the ground engagingmembers; a plurality of fluid valves supported by the ground engagingmembers and in fluid communication with the pump, the method comprising:providing a boundary condition; providing a priority ranking for eachmodule; receiving a command to execute; determining if executing thecommand will violate the boundary condition; executing the command ifdetermined that executing the command will not violate the boundarycondition; and if determined that executing the command will violate theboundary condition, determining if the command is directed to a higherpriority module than a priority of a first operating module; determiningnot to execute the command when the command is directed to a lowerpriority module than the first operating module; reducing an output ofthe first operating module prior to executing the command when thecommand is directed to the higher priority module than the firstoperating module; determining if executing the command is directed to ahigher priority module than a priority of a second operating module; andreducing an output of the second operating module prior to executing thecommand when the command is directed to the higher priority module thanthe second operating module wherein the output of the first operatingmodule and second operating module are equally reduced when the commandis directed to the higher priority module than the first and secondoperating modules.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein already operatingmodules are given higher priority than newly started modules.
 10. Themethod of claim 8, wherein the priority ranking is provided by anoperator.
 11. A method of determining whether to execute a command in acontrol system for a pump module for a fluid delivery system operating aplurality of modules, the fluid delivery system including a frame; aplurality of ground engaging members supporting the frame; a pumpsupported by the ground engaging members; a plurality of fluid valvessupported by the ground engaging members and in fluid communication withthe pump, the method comprising: providing a boundary condition;providing a priority ranking for each module; receiving a command toexecute; determining if executing the command will violate the boundarycondition; executing the command if determined that executing thecommand will not violate the boundary condition; if determined thatexecuting the command will violate the boundary condition, determiningif the command is directed to a higher priority module than a priorityof an operating module; determining not to execute the command when thecommand is directed to a lower priority module than the operatingmodule; and reducing an output of the operating module prior toexecuting the command when the command is directed to the higherpriority module than the operating module; controlling a pressuregenerated by the pump and a position of the plurality of valves; andmaintaining a first flow rate through a first valve of the fluiddelivery system wherein maintaining the first flow rate through thefirst valve of the fluid delivery system includes the steps of:providing a first flow rate of a fluid pressurized by the pump throughthe first valve; receiving at a controller a request for a second flowrate of the fluid through a second valve; determining with thecontroller a predicted effect on the first flow rate based on request;adjusting at least one of the position of the first valve and thepressure generated by the pump to maintain the first flow rate based onthe predicted effect; and adjusting the position of the second valve toprovide the second flow rate of the fluid through the second valve. 12.The method of claim 11, further comprising the steps of: displaying on atouchscreen display a status of the first valve; displaying on thetouchscreen display a manipulatable icon; receiving a manipulation ofthe icon; and controlling the status of the first valve based on themanipulation.
 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising the stepsof: displaying on the touchscreen display a second manipulatable icon;receiving a second manipulation of the second icon; and controlling astatus of the second valve based on the second manipulation.
 14. Themethod of claim 13, further comprising the steps of: controlling a powersource of the fluid delivery system; and adjusting at least one of thegroup consisting of the first valve and the power source to maintain oneof a pressure and a flow rate through the first valve in response to thesecond manipulation of the second icon.
 15. The method of claim 12,further comprising the steps of: displaying a list of outputs on asingle display screen of the touchscreen display from a plurality ofsystems including a first valve controller, a second valve controller, amonitor, a water cannon, an engine, a governor, a water tank, a foamtank, a generator, a ladder, an aerial, and a scene lighting system;selecting a portion of outputs from the list of outputs displayed on thetouchscreen display; and automatically configuring a size of the portionof outputs to fit on the single display screen.
 16. The method of claim12, further comprising the steps of: detecting a current status of thefirst valve; and displaying a second icon indicating the current statusof the first valve.
 17. The method of claim 12, wherein themanipulatable icon is graphical representation of the first valve. 18.The method of claim 12, further comprising the steps of: displaying apower source manipulatable icon on the touchscreen display; andcontrolling a governor associated with a power source based on amanipulation of the power source manipulatable icon.
 19. The method ofclaim 12, further comprising the steps of: determining a fluid volume ina fluid tank; and displaying a fluid tank icon on the touchscreendisplay which indicates the fluid volume in the fluid tank.
 20. Themethod of claim 19, wherein the fluid tank icon is a manipulatable fluidtank icon, the method further comprising the steps of: receiving amanipulation of the fluid tank icon; and controlling a valve in fluidcommunication with a fluid source and with the fluid tank to fill thefluid tank with fluid based on the manipulation of the fluid tank icon.21. The method of claim 12, further comprising the steps of: displayinga current value of a parameter of the fluid delivery system; displayinga manipulatable first threshold icon corresponding to a first thresholdvalue associated with the parameter; and receiving a manipulation of thefirst threshold icon to adjust the first threshold value.
 22. The methodof claim 21, further comprising the steps of: displaying an alert whenthe current value of the parameter crosses the first threshold value.